14 years!!!

Today is 14 years since I was first diagnosed with breast cancer.  I am doing well. For the last 9 years, I have been in doctors office getting treatments every 3 weeks, CT scan every 12 weeks, seeing doctor every 6 weeks. I am doing well on this medicine. It’s my understanding that the meds are no longer infusions like I get. They are shots now. Times have changed but we are not changing my regimen for now. 

I am blessed beyond measure. Grateful for my medical team and to God. Love my family and friends and I appreciate so much love and support over the last 14 years. It’s incredible. 

11 Years!

 Another year has passed by and it is now 11 years since I was first diagnosed with breast cancer.  That is another 365 days that God gave me.  Thankful does not even begin to describe how I feel on this day.  To be given another day, not to mention another year, cancer free is a blessing beyond measure.  

The ever looming CT scan is still every 3 months, my next one is Nov 18th.  This has continued for the last 6 years since diagnosis number 2.  The feeling of gratitude to be cancer free is like renewing another 3 months of a new lease on life.

While I am grateful for each day, my question to myself in this 5 minutes of reflection is what can make me a better person? I think it is just telling someone nice things, giving compliments, encouraging someone, doing something nice for someone, positivity.  Simple kind words and actions can make the biggest difference to someone.  This is the person I want to be and I don't do it enough.  I will work on it...

In the meantime, cheers! Here's to 11 years.  Thank YOU for following me, supporting me, encouraging me.  I will pay it forward!

Love to you and to all out there in this world! 

Amanda

10 YEARS!!!!!

 Today marks 10 years since I was first diagnosed with breast cancer. Still in regular treatments and always will be…currently cancer free!!! Thankful for the last 10 years of great memories with my family and friends. Thank you for your support over the years!  Beyond blesed, happy and grateful! 💞

October 2020- No news is great news!

 Hi,

It's been a while since I have posted!  No news is great news! I have had clear scans and continue to do treatments every three weeks and they are certainly doing their job.  I was in getting treatment on this past Monday and my oncologist was very happy about her previous patient who was telling her that her daughter is getting married.  This patient has been under care since her daughter was a teenager.  I was so elated for this patient and for my doctor.  These are the success stories we hope and pray for.  

When I started this journey, my son was 4 years old.  My goal was to be here long enough to parent him until I felt like he could live in this world on his own in all those good ways that you want for your children.  There are morals and values we want for our children.  I wanted Jack to have a heart for others, to know how to give and not always receive, to learn to trust God in everything, to be helpful rather than hurtful, to not always take the easy road, to know how to explain how he feels, to know how to be heard but to listen, to know how to cope, to know how to inspire goodness, to know how to be funny without being stupid.  In some ways, I feel like I arrived there now that he is 13 as of August.  Now, I feel like he kind of is on his own, navigating it all and now he just needs practice.  My next goal is to see him drive at 16 and watch him continue to grow to into a good man with all of those amazing foundational qualities.  He should be a real catch! HA! Then, and only then, maybe I will see him on his wedding day and marry the woman I have been praying for since the day I gave birth to him.  That is such a sweet goal.

I am coming upon 9 years in this journey on November 3rd.  I will be 5 years in May since my second diagnosis.  Today, I regularly live free of fear and doubt.  Periodically, I will wrestle with it, think too hard about it, but then I move on pretty quickly.  I guess we could all do that.  Question ourselves if we are living our best life.  I think that is appropriate regardless of who you are and what you are going through.  Especially in the middle of this pandemic and all that comes with that.  Just live the best life you can possibly live.  That is the best goal.

I appreciate those of you who stick by me, pray for me, and who care for me.  You are my true friends, my true family.  I can't account for each of you, because I write this on a blank white space and don't really expect or even hope someone is reading this.  I just do it and maybe one or two of you are there with me and thank you for that. :)  

It is October and that is Breast Cancer Awareness month.  I am signed up to participate in a fundraiser for American Cancer Society- Power of Pink.  Please feel free to donate to my page, or not.

There was an update in June 2020 that my oncologist at Lexington Clinic is all now part of the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center network.  This provides access to new information, trial drugs, etc.  I am pretty excited about this update.

Until next time... and live your best life!

Thank you, 

Amanda

Summer 2019

Hi!
For those of you who know me, you know I like to tell stories in detail. That is one of the reasons why I like this blog. I can write about whatever and whenever I want, in however much detail I want. The moral of the story is that I don’t write enough. LOL It’s therapeutic for me.

I have been wanting to write this blog since May 30, 2019. That was my three year anniversary of my second diagnosis.  I am so blessed to be living this life by the grace of God. This is definitely a journey because initially you think life is over as you know it, and that’s not always the case, such as my case.

 It’s interesting to look back and reflect on the last almost 8 years that I have been doing this. When it began, my son Jack was four years old and we were talking about having tea parties with Mommy when she’s sick. He is now almost 12 years old. I’ll tell you a good story...

We were traveling the other day and stayed at a Hampton Inn next-door to the Cleveland Clinic. I pointed at it and told him that when I had to deal with the cancer again and need more help, that this is where I would come. He shook his head and followed it without question. Previously I would have only been able to tell him something like this with big tears and with a fearful heart. Today I can speak to him with confidence and with little fear. This is God’s work in me. So two things, I know I am less fearful than ever, and secondly it’s proof that God is doing great things in me and for me. Now can I say this because of course everything is easier said than done?  I don’t know. I just know to not question it and leave it alone.

Right now, I know that I am here and living my life as it should be. I have never been so settled in my purpose. I used to question it all of the time when I was younger. I even started to think that life would always be in turmoil because it’s a trick and you never really do find purpose. But it was found for me and I am thankful for that.

There are some people who continue to wear a pink bracelet with “Amanda’s Army of Angels” on it. Day after day, they put it on their wrist. I see the bracelet and I smile so grateful. I feel so indebted to them and their commitment to seeing me thru this. But then God says Amanda- you don’t have to do anything in return. It’s ok that people love you. God continues to teach me...

Love you. Thank you for being on this journey.

Amanda

Clear scan! 3/4/19

Hi friends! Today I got a clear CT scan! It's been almost 3 years since second diagnosis (and 8 years in November since first one). I have been living in God's grace. This means that I have allowed myself to live normally by putting cancer to the side. My treatments are going good. My doctor is pleased with me.

I try to live everyday in His grace and in appreciation. It's really the only way to live in freedom. I am thankful for my friends and my family who continue to support me!

Love you now and always! :). Until next time... Xoxo

Amanda

Clear scan 12/3/18

Hi!
I had a CT scan today. It was all clear! I also saw my doctor and all was good. I had my treatment- 2 hour drip that I do every 3 weeks. I did good, but I was very tired with headache afterwards today. So I went home to rest.

My next scan is in March. All is going well. I am thankful for so much. It's already been such a great holiday season through Thanksgiving. I look forward to a blessed Christmas with family and friends.

I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I wish you special memories, moments happening today not waiting for tomorrow, and all the happiness in the world.


Lots of love,
Amanda

Hi,
Well I sure have missed my blog family.  I hope you are doing well.  I think about writing from time to time, but then get distracted by life's stuff.  I have been clear of cancer, and this means that cancer doesn't get much attention from day to day.  And, this means I live normally and don't often dive into any vulnerable areas.

However, I post today for a few reasons.  One is because, today, I am 2 years cancer free since my 2nd diagnosis (6 years, 6 months, 27 days total since my 1st diagnosis) and I do have a few vulnerable feelings, despite being cancer free right now. 

As a side note, you might wonder how I am really doing...I am energetic and thriving and living my life as full as possible, and as close to Jesus as possible.  I do find it very complex to live at 42 years old and know that my time could be very limited.  It's hard to not just up and fly out to Italy on a whim, or jump in my car and drive with my windows down and music turned up all the way to the beach and stay for more than a week; and just succumb to adult responsibilities of life.  (I should note here that I don't have a bucket list.)

So, on with the vulnerability part of this post.  Jack is graduating 5th grade tomorrow.  This school, these teachers have been with me over the last 7 years of this cancer journey.  I am forever grateful for their investment in my son.  Its been a safe place for me and for Jack during this journey.  Its been a small community of people I trust.  I am moving on with Jack to middle school to a new family that I hope is just as warm and caring and trusting with my son and our family. 

This coming Monday, June 4, 2018 is my follow up 3 month CT scan check.  I feel like it should be normal.  I literally don't feel bad or feel anything that would warrant the cancer's return.  However, I mentioned that today is my 2 year anniversary date.  We are now entering into the more pressing time frame of when the medicine is more likely to stop working.  Two years ago, I estimated it to work for 2-5 years.  So, now the inevitable becomes more likely. And with the "more likely" comes the pressure of being absolutely certain moving forward that I am living my life each and every moment to the best that it absolutely can be.  This is exactly where I will spend a lot of my time thinking and praying moving forward.  Frankly, I know this is no different for anyone, as we are all limited in our time on earth. I just get to hit it head on, face to face now in my best days of my life.

My best days of my life are spent in those little moments with my 10 year old that I only hope are the key moments that will define and shape him and moments that he will be able to look back and remember on his own account how special his mom is and how much she loves him.  The moments where my family can live in freedom without stress and fear.  I really don't need Italy or the beach.  I just need more of these little moments, especially before my son becomes a middle school alien of a child who smells like Axe spray and is full of drama. LOL. 

Another side note, my mom has taught me everything, with one exception- my brothers and 2 cousins taught me how to fight and not give up.  My aunts and uncles have coached me.  My step dad has stuck with me through everything.  My husband has loved me through everything. My friends...my friends have warmed my soul.  God has guided and provided for me in everything and in every way. 

I am one lucky blessed girl. 

Lots of love from me to you... 

I pray that you see where God has provided you with your angels, blessings and guidance, and that you believe He is relentless in his love for you regardless of circumstances. This makes all the difference in the world.

All CLEAR! 11/13/17

Hi! I had a CT scan today and it was all clear!  Got a free pass for holidays!  Next scan is mid February. :) Thank you for your thoughts and prayrers for me! Xoxo love you!

In our church service on this past Sunday, the pastor discussed being grateful. He said when in prayer this week, don’t ask for anything but just tell God how grateful we are. I have to say, yes I am so happy to have a clear scan! I am also so grateful regardless of circumstances. To God be the glory and to God I give THANKS! Xoxo

2017 Komen Race for the Cure

Hi!  I am doing well!  I have a team in Lexington, KY Komen Race for the Cure on 10/21 and would love for you to join me!  Register, donate, buy a raffle ticket for chance to win huge basket, go to our "Crafts for a Cause" fundraiser on Thursday 10/19...more info below...

AMANDA’S ARMY OF ANGELS / RACE FOR THE CURE - 10/21

Sign up now to join Amanda's Army in the Race for the Cure on Saturday, October 21st! And don't miss the pre-race breakfast at 7:30am that Lynn Imaging is providing for team members! Check out the link below for details. http://www.info-komen.org/site/TR?fr_id=6914&pg=team&team_id=389217


CRAFTS FOR A CAUSE FUNDRAISER at WEST SIXTH BREWERY - 10/19

Join us on Thursday, October 19th, 4:30-6:30pm, as we raise money to beat breast cancer at one of Lexington's best craft breweries! Click the link below for more information: http://smpskentucky.org/meetinginfo.php?id=153&ts=1505753372

BUY A RAFFLE TICKET FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A BASKET VALUED OVER $800!!!! - AVAILABLE THROUGH 10/21

Tickets are available for $20 each, only 100 to be sold.  All funds go to Susan G Komen.  Tickets are available at Lynn Imaging Lexington and Louisville locations (M-F 8am-5pm) and they will be sold at the Crafts for a Cause Fundraiser and Networking event!  Drawing will be held at Lynn Imaging's breakfast prior to race on 10/21.  A huge thank you for the contributions from SMPS Kentucky, Lynn Imaging, Monster Color, West Sixth Brewing, Saul Good Hamburg, Sweet Mash, The Elkhorn Tavern, The Candleberry Co and Hartfield & Co.

Scan is ALL CLEAR

Hi!
Hope all is well with you!  I had a CT scan this morning and it's ALL CLEAR!!! My next one is in November!

All is going well. Living my crazy normal life. Since I posted, I gained my 10lb lost and now I've started a new plan to lose 10-15lb again. :) This is a good thing prior to football season starting!  Maybe, just maybe, I will stick to this new plan! Other than that, my son turned 10 years old this month and I got to bake his cake as I have done each year. I cried when I had the chance to do it again this year. It's the little things I appreciate.

For me, I have resumed a normal life. I have bouts of deep thoughts, emotional moments, but mostly I have a fun, loving life where I adore my friends and family and always look for the next event, festival, opportunity to cookout.

When I am uncertain or just not sure I can handle the stress or heaviness of the situation, I do one thing...I pray. God relieves me of my anxiety and fear. God takes care of me. He puts everything in perspective for me.

Love to you. Hope all is well in your world. And you are in good health!

Xoxo Amanda

CT Scan Today

Hi. :) Today is my CT scan checkup. I am sitting here in waiting room. Already drank my 2 16oz milkshakes and no coffee yet this Monday morning. I also have treatment today. I have been doing well! Here are some updates...

-I turned 41 years old since I last post! Yay for birthdays!
-I decided to not run the half marathon. But this goal is not totally off my radar yet.
-Been eating better and have probably lost about 10lb only from removing a few bad habits.
-Had my hair trimmed and colored on 5/4. Have some gray to cover up :) not fully ready to come out of my blondie wigs.  I was about 4-6 weeks later last time I went back for first hair appt. jumped the gun a little bit.
-Life has been my normal chaos with balance of work and home. This is good.
-Current treatments of Perjeta and Herceptin every 3 weeks is going ok. I am tired within about a 48 hour time frame after treatment. I find that do have to stop and nap. And I am not a napper! But this helps.

I will report back on my scan report today. Xoxo!! Love to you!

Got the results... CLEAR scan. :) next one is August 2017!

Update! ALL CLEAR!

Hi!!! Scan was CLEAR!!!!! Yahoo!!!!

Meds without chemo seemed uneventful on 2/13. Certainly was not sick like with chemo. I still have issues with hair, neuropathy. Hoping that gets better soon. I still have vision problems many times, it's like double vision. I am having an MRI on Wed to check my brain. At the very least we will know if there are any real problems there. I don't anticipate anything other than an all clear. I will report back.

Overall strength is horrible. I am sore right now and have not done any major exercise. Physical strength has been a lot harder than I thought it would be.  I have been exercising but it's mostly walking. Jogging is incredibly hard at the moment. I'm also batting 50% on the clean eating ordeal. I am eating chicken nuggets and fries as I write this. Fried chicken and French fries are a major downfall for me. The way I see it is that there is always tomorrow to start fresh, I don't have to eat it all, and I deserve it. It's a constant battle in my head. Ha!

I realize this is not very inspiring. Hope to have a much better report next time. Maybe I will be jogging and have lost a few lbs by then...  (I am not eating more than half my fries! The right side of my brain won this one! Haha!!)

Lots of love to my angels. Xoxo
Amanda

Let's Do This!!!!!!

Hi,
Today is February 1, 2017.  Today marks the upswing from the last treatment on 1/23.  It also marks the day that I am focusing on eating healthy and exercising.  My body feels like it has aged 15 years just in the last 8 months.  My body will never go back to what it was.  Now, I have no choice but to force myself, like never before, to embrace eating better and exercising.  Don't get me wrong, its not always a struggle to do what is right, but it is a fight, no doubt. 

Today begins a new journey to do what is right.  I am not going to focus on low carb or low calorie plans as I have in the past.  They are either way too high in fat or way too little for me.  My focus will be clean eating.  This will include fruits, vegetables and pork, poultry, fish.  I don't eat red meat and haven't since I was 19 years old. I haven't decided how to deal with ice cream cravings, yet. ha!  Right now, I am not having a craving, so we will count this as good. 

My exercising will include walking and working up to jogging very soon and running soon after that.  My goal is to run a half marathon on April 29th, 2017.  Today, I walked 2.4 miles, did 10 girly push ups, did 2 reps of 15 crunches and only 30 100's, in this case it was 30's (if you don't know what this is, its ok, I'll explain another time)- to build up core strength.  I am on the right track as of this minute.

I look forward to what I write on May 1, 2017. I will tell you one thing, yes it is a struggle, but when I really want something, and I am really fighting for it, I turn to prayer and seek God's help in helping me make the impossible possible.  So reassuring and breathtaking... for someone so unworthy like myself doesn't disqualify me from His love and promise. Boom, drop the mic! He is so Mighty!!!

With that, let's do this!!  I will be posting soon.  CT scan is 2/13.  Will definitely report back for that if not sooner!

XOXOOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Amanda

Chemo #12 LAST ONE!!! Aaahhh!!

Hi! 

Waiting now for my last chemo treatment. Can you believe it!? I thought for sure I would be done in October. I have learned a lot of patience to make it to Jan 23. And then to make it thru next couple of weeks and I will be the real me in no time!!!! 

Here is my next things-- My next CT scan is 2/13. Blood work, seeing Rachel and intravenous meds Herceptin and Perjeta will be this day as well and continue every three weeks. We want scans to remain clear forever, just to be clear lol. :):) 

I have big dreams of exercise and eating right once I begin bouncing back end of Feb. I cannot think about it anymore. I must do it and I will do it. 

My family went to Florida last week and it was so needed. I haven't looked forward to something so much in a long time. It was relaxing and a good boost to get thru next weeks. Recovery is taking longer each time. 

As I sit here waiting on chemo chair, this little lady who is probably at least 85 yrs old is so insporing to me right now. She is spunky. She asked her sons if the Super Bowl was happening and said she is usually more involved in watching playoffs. Lol. I love her. She had comments about Trump as well that made me smile. I like the way she thinks (I can't tell you which way as this is not the platform for that and not my style). She then offered a piece of chocolate to her son and he said I am not eating chocolate- eating low carb now. She laughed at him and said I just got a "big fat bag of chocolate".  God love her!

Love you and thank you for following me and your consistent prayers and thoughts for me. 

Love from one of your favorite cancer survivors always fighting for life, for truth, for the day, for joy in everything... we got this. ( I just sat in my chemo chair- got my favorite one today-Corner with windows. :))

Xoxo Amanda 

Chemo #11 done. ONE more to go...

Hi!  Happy New Year!! I hope you had a great Christmas!! I had a great Christmas. I was a little behind and some of it didn't come out perfectly- but it was fine! We really enjoyed a ton of Chris's family who was in. On Christmas Eve, Santa left a gift on our front porch. It's not that me or my family are in need but it was Christmas cheer brought to my home. I don't know who or what group of people came together to make this happen, but it was a huge gift and brought so much joy to us!! I have the YETI cooler sitting in my living room and it will stay there. :) I will continue to.pay this forward. Thank you Santa!!!! I am so grateful, I framed the card. My family is reminded of generosity and giving through your gift. Thank you!

Over the holiday, we also got to celebrate Chris retiring from Lex PD Homicide...finally!

I completed chemo #11 yesterday (Tues 1/3). I have ONE more chemo on 1/23!  This will be a break until it comes back. I know we are all very positively thinking that the cancer will not come back and this may be the case. But reality says it will return in maybe the next year or two or three. I am convinced that I will at least have one good year before it returns. :) I am very happy to be off of chemo! I will continue two meds intravenously every three weeks but don't mistake this for "chemo". These are drugs that will help stop the cancer from growing. Chemo kills cells. These other drugs will stop the cancer cells from talking to each other thru it's little tentacles, so that they will starve and die off.  And most importantly, I will feel good with little side effects.

My doctor put me on these 12 treatments which was a lot and more than most because she said that it was life threatening with the shortness of breath and near lungs.

I have decided to not do a second opinion until the cancer comes back.

I should be 100% by end of February. I am comitting to run a half marathon on April 29tb- assuming my muscles feel like they bounce back normally.  I will be in full swing at work. I am excited! I am determined. I am not saddened by the fact the cancer could come back. I am rejuvenated that I can be done with chemo for a while. I have adjusted to the fact that cancer is my reality and will always be a part of my life. I will live every 3 months hopeful for a clear CT scan for my forever. My next one is due in February. And then May. And then August. And then November and so on. Clear scans will be a gift from God. He can be trusted in this. He is ALWAYS good. My peace, my comfort come from His heart. I know no peace on my own. Its our prayers that he hears and that sustain me.

I think I have covered the latest updates. I am grateful for you, my friends and my family and those who read this and care for me who don't even know me.

Thanks for being on this journey with me. I will continue to update as I can and as I have more info.

Lots of love from my heart to yours.

Xoxo Amanda

Chemo #10 and upates 12/14/16

Hi,
Another 3 weeks have gone by.  I have a few updates. 

I had treatment #10 on Monday 12/12.  I am on my downhill starting today Wed thru Saturday or so. 

My doctor said that we are doing 2 more treatments, so that my last one would be January 23. However, its not my last one.  She said it is my last one for a break and that I will be resuming chemo in the near future.  She couldn't say exactly when at the moment.  I am still convinced that she thinks new meds are coming out and wants to keep this regimen that is working.  Its a bit of blow to my spirit but as long as I know what I have to do and what I have to prepare for, then I will continue to fight the fight that is before me. 

My side effects from treatment are taking a toll.  I have blurred vision that keeps getting worse.  Many times, the fatigue is from the actual chemo and my body is relatively strong, however, my body is now starting to get tired.  Muscles are weak. 

I was in a "moment" this morning and got this reminder from my Bible app... "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.  And if we know that he hears us- whatever we ask- we know that we have what we asked of him."  1 John 5:14-15.  Sounds complicated, but it just means to let Him know our concerns, ask big prayers, give Him our worries and He will give us rest and peace.

Thank you for your prayers, notes, thoughts for me and my family.

I love that its Christmas time.  I look forward to fun new memories of the season.  I wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in 2017!


XOXO

Love,
Amanda

Chemo #9 11/21 and big updates

Hi!
Sorry I have not been in touch. I've been living normal which means I take my attention away from this cancer stuff and live life! :):) Since my last treatment, my weeks 2 and 3 were really good again! I am truly getting the hang of this!

I had a scan last Monday 11/14 and it was CLEAR!  Still no cancer. :) my next scan should be in February (every 3 months forever).

Chemo treatment #9 was today and it seemed to go well. More tired today, didn't sleep well last night.

Talked to Dr Harper today about what she would do about second opinion. She says she would get a second opinion when it comes back. So for now, continue on.  I concur-No second opinion for now.

I also asked her about next steps in treatment. She says she will likely go to 12 treatments with the chemo. This means only 3 more treatments and my last one would be Jan 23!!! Happy dance! I will still continue the Perjeta and Herceptin intravenously every 3 weeks for a very long time- prob until it doesn't work anymore or new/better meds are out. I thought we were waiting on new meds that I would transition to coming off the chemo- but don't think this is the case for now. The reason to stop chemo is that my body can't take much more than 12 full doses.  If and when new meds come out, I will switch to them when this current regimen doesn't work anymore (maybe that was her point this whole time and I just caught on.). Regardless, I will still be on a really good regimen even without the chemo. Check out Perjeta's website.

Last week, I signed up for a life insurance policy that waived pre existing conditions. That was almost the BEST news I had this past week. That was something I tried to take care of right before I was sick 5 years ago and always missed the agent on phone to sign up. A big load off!

Today, I interviewed to be a volunteer to make my Oncology Unit resource library better for cancer patients. I am excited about this. I complained a lot to myself and people with me, and figured I would just do something about it. :)

I need to digest the info about coming off of chemo. I need to get ready for this switch and know that it's ok. I have to trust Dr Harper completely in this decision. My personality says to deal with whatever it is if it is working. So to come off of something working to something that may not work makes me a little nervous.

Dr Harper told me to be extra careful of being around people with flu or stomach bug. This could put me in the hospital. Please- if you know you are sick, tell me to get away or avoid me please.

God provides in so many ways for me and my family. So thankful on this night. Very suitable for the Thanksgiving weekend. I wish everyone a blessed holiday and a wonderful time with your friends and family. My mom hosted our dinner last night as I will feel terrible on Thursday and Friday. I will stay home. My heart wants to cook like I always do for an army. Oh well. No big deal. I will be feeling good for all of the Christmas season after 12/19. This will be good. :)

Happy Thanksgiving. Again, I am incredibly grateful to God in this season. He is my rock, my everything- without Him, I would be nothing but fearful, doubtful, abandoned, sad, crushed, depressed, hopeless, dying...but with Him, I am fearless, doubtless, loved, peaceful, comforted, courageous, hopeful, living.   Believing in His Almighty Power is an amazing experience not when it's a last resort and nowhere else to go, but always believing in who He is no matter the circumstances.  He changes everything.  Paired with 2 breast cancer episodes, I am truly humbled by His grace.

Happy Thanksgiving.  Find the good in the season and be a light to those you are with. :)

Love, Amanda

Chemo #8 10/31 and update

Hi,
Gosh. I just wrote for more than an hour and all but done, my phone shut down and lost it all. Wow. I will do the best I can...again...

The last 3 weeks have been good and interesting and with some developments. After treatment, Week 1 was mostly bad. It was my typical down week

Week 2 was good avoiding colds but had a scare that required a colonoscopy. It was clean and clear. No issues! I was much more in depth the first time I wrote this. Suffice it to say it wasn't that bad. Get one if you need one or of age to schedule it!

Week 3 was good. I have allergies that act like they want to develop into cold. No big deal for now. I had to cut my nails back, at least half way toward quick. Most people will think "oh gosh, she is a serious nail biter". They are scabby and gross. I don't like nail biting; it's a bad habit. You know it is- my nail biting friends.  I also cannot handle popping fingers. Both give me chills down my back. Bottom line, my nails are pretty gross but I go on like they are normal. Who cares!

Also, a few days ago I talked to someone my age, with work/family similar to mine- who is getting treatment out of state. As a result of this conversation, I do believe I will get a second opinion in December- after another scan I will do in about 3 weeks.

At my last treatment, I was informed that we would do another scan in 3 weeks but also learned that the cancer can return while enduring chemo treatments. I thought I was in coasting mode but apparently not (and not sure that coasting seasons will be something I can enjoy- this remains to be seen).  I think you can understand the difference. In addition to this, I am now going into the unknown.  My point of reference is 5 years ago, I had 18 chemo treatments (totaling 6 AC and 12 low doses of Taxotere) and 33 radiation treatments and double mastectomy. With each was a definitive end and definitive result. Now, I am going into my 8th full dose treatment of taxotere with two other meds. Moving forward, I don't have a number we will end at. I don't know how my body will hold up. I don't know what my next meds will look like. I don't have a definitive result. I was hoping I would be done by October and that's not the case. I am annoyed more than anything but managing well.

Now, this week is a little emotional for me.  I have treatment tomorrow, Monday 10/31 Halloween. :) but it's also 5 years to the dates and days that I found out the first time I was diagnosed. Monday is the day my appointments got moved and I went to my endocrinologist where she pointed out to me my golf ball size tumor in my breast. Tuesday was mammo, ultrasound and biopsy. Thursday 11/3 was the phone call.

We are wrapping up breast cancer awareness month. I have heard encouraging stories that are good to hear.  I offer this to you...Get your mammograms. Do self exams once per month- figure it out and take it serious. Don't skip your annual appointments with your OBGYN. Confession- I didn't take self exams serious and I skipped appointments. This is a different kind of encouragement but please take it as I care about you.

Thanks for loving me the way you do. You would not believe how my work peeps love me. Store 8 rocks it out with gifts all the time. Store 1 rocks it with hugs and laughs. My 3 bosses love me like I am their daughter- one of them doesn't have a choice. :):) My colleagues, customers, friends are caring and supportive and patient. I am in awe all of the time over people who care about me. I have said this before, but it's authentic and beautiful. God shows His love thru you and these people. He knows retreating and withdrawing are not my thing, but receiving love from my friends and family is.  I praise God and thank Him everyday, it is what speaks to my heart the most.  Xoxo.

Not exactly what I wrote the first time, but I wrote this for another hour. It's exactly what it needs to be. ;) I just went to publish this and joke is on me. The other draft saved in my list as draft.. Aye ya ya, oh well. I got to see Cubs win game #5! (also- to those of you who are reading this and was in the recent SMPS class that said double spacing is not acceptable in business writing any longer- then why in the world does the iPhone require a double space to achieve a period?! Feel free to message me about that! Ha!)

Lots of love,
Amanda

Blessed.

What a blessing of a week...

Saturday was the Lexington Race for the Cure. Approx 90 people showed up to run and walk. Several others of you could not be there but donated to my team. We raised over $5,000 that will be used to bring awareness to breast cancer and pay for research. Thank you for being a part of this, a part of my journey. I am blessed and don't really have the words to express how it feels to feel so loved and cared for.

On Sunday, we left for Charleston SC for Jacks fall break. We evacuated Wednesday morning at 6:30am and went home.

It's been a long but good week for me. It has felt very normal for me and that's good. Normal means that I am not preoccupied with this process and energy level back to fairly normal levels.  The issue is going into week one of side effects and knowing the hit my body takes. I am determined to push hard thru this. I have to be careful now that it's cold and flu season, so even though I feel well, I can't run out everywhere.

I appreciate your prayers and thoughts for me. I will try to update more but I don't want this to turn into "Amanda's update on side effects". I like to use this blog to update you on real updates and it helps me process real issues. It keeps me accountable to God's promises. Love you.

Chemo treatment #7 is on Monday 10/10.

More later...

Xoxo
Amanda